Assembly Bill 148 proposes amendments to sections 807.14 and 967.09 of the Wisconsin statutes regarding the use of interpreters in civil and criminal proceedings. Currently, the law allows interpreters to act by telephone or live audiovisual means in civil or criminal proceedings, but excludes trials from this provision. The bill seeks to remove this exclusion, thereby permitting interpreters to provide their services via telephone or audiovisual means during trials as well.

The amendments will enable greater accessibility and flexibility in legal proceedings by allowing interpreters to assist parties in trials, similar to their role in other types of proceedings. This change aims to enhance communication and ensure that non-English speakers or individuals with hearing impairments can fully participate in the judicial process.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 807.14, 967.09